DPC '10 Competitor Interview: Matt Handwork

2003 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD

Ohio native Matt Handwork is bringing confidence and a handful of experience to the table for this year's Diesel Power Challenge. A new, fire-breathing Duramax engine put together by former DPC competitor Jeff Dean should make Matt's '03 Chevrolet Silverado one of the best running trucks in the field.

And, Matt is certainly not afraid of going for broke in every single event. For him, it's a once in a lifetime opportunity-and he intends to make the best of it. Simply put, he wants to win! And in all honesty, a strong Duramax, coupled with his experience in diesel motorsports could get him there. Matt has been sled pulling and drag racing for quite some time, and we saw him win the 7.70-Index class at the 2009 Scheid Diesel Extravaganza. Here's how he plans to be a front-runner:

Diesel Power: What changes are you making to the truck?Matt Handwork: "I would have been happy to bring my good old stock Duramax engine that I've been competing with for 3 years. However, some engine issues forced me to have my buddy, Jeff Dean at On Track Auto, set me up with a new build. I'm also working with Brayden at Fleece Performance on a custom turbo setup, as well as some transmission tweaking."

DP: What tires do you plan to use?MH: "This is a tough decision for sure! I'm still tossing this one around. It could certainly be a last minute decision."

DP: What is your strategy going to be for each event?MH: "Win or break it trying! You do not get to compete in great events like this too often."

DP: What spare parts are you bringing?MH: "It makes my head hurt to think about what I should bring, so for now, just a spare tire."

DP: Who are your crewmembers?MH: "I will be bringing two of the best in the business: Jeff Dean, my top-notch mechanic and good friend, Brayden Fleece from Fleece Performance, my turbo and transmission specialist, and my buddy John, for moral support and entertainment."

DP: Any other thoughts?MH: "Thanks so much to Diesel Power for the invite. I'm honored to be a part of this. In my mind, this is the Daytona 500 of diesel motorsports and I can't wait to get started. This group of competitors appears to be the strongest yet. I have competed with a few of them and they are great guys-and I look forward to meeting the rest."